Masturbation is not an easy subject to address at any time, especially in public. Yet there is an aspect to it that is rarely, if ever looked at. For professing followers of Christ, it is quite serious.

Marital intimacy carries its own set of stimuli. Because two people are involved, love is present, which intensifies and enhances the whole intimate experience. A very loving and beautiful thing. Masturbation normally is the pleasuring of self.

In order to achieve arousal, sti ... muli, via books videos or hidden fantasies are needed. When we commit ourselves to Christ, part of that commitment is faithfulness. So then, in the practicing of self arousal, we are in fact cheating on our Spouse. We aren't fantasizing about climbing mountains or other innocent things are we. No, of course we aren't.

We are thinking of that man or woman that just really turns us on. We cannot truly call ourselves continent, chaste, celibates when we are fantasizing sexual pleasures with the man or woman next door can we?

Our God has openly said He is a jealous God. He becomes very angry when we go whoring after idols, including the idol of our own pleasures. This is the real danger in masturbation for those who profess continent, chaste, celibate lives. Well, for anyone who claims the Christ is first in their lives.

We must zealously protect ourselves against the rampant external stimuli that exists around us. We avoid books, images and conversations that all too often get us into serious trouble with our own rebellious flesh. We take great care with how we dress and comport ourselves publicly at all times.

We pray, asking our guardian angels, the Blessed Mother Mary and the Holy Spirit to give us every help. Admitting we simply cannot do this on our own. For we understand that we have taken vows before God, surrendering our bodies to Him completely. We are wed to Him more surely than we are in a human, carnal marriage. It is a priceless union, holy and sacred.

Observed faithfully, it brings to us endless joy and a deep intimacy with our God. A truly beautiful thing. Don't debase it by giving in to the lies of the enemy who hates purity. The more faithful we are, the more beautiful will be our place in Heaven. i love each and every one of you so much. May our God bless you with His abundant joy and abiding peace. JMJ +++ bat mitzvah gowns